What Is the Lesion in Parkinson's Disease?

The lesion that develops in Parkinson's disease is known as a Lewy body. It is an unusual collection of protein that contributes to the death of cells in the brain of a person affected by Parkinson's disease.

Identification

• Lewy bodies are composed of the naturally occurring protein synuclein, which forms unusual deposits in brain cells in Parkinson's disease, according to Merck Manuals.

Location

• In Parkinson's disease, Lewy bodies develop in cells in a part of the brain known as the substantia negra and in some other areas as well, according to Merck Manuals.

Significance

• Lewy bodies destroy cells within the brain that produce dopamine, a chemical used by brain cells to control coordination and movement, according to Merck Manuals and Medline Plus.

Considerations

• There are very few cases of Parkinson's disease in which Lewy bodies do not develop, according to Merck Manuals.

Ties

• Lewy bodies, according to Merck Manuals, are also found in other neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease.